Pediatric cerebral ganglioglioma epilepsy surgery: enhancing seizure outcomes through optimized resection applying high-field intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging.

purposeGangliogliomas are rare, slow-growing brain tumors frequently associated with seizures in pediatric patients. This study evaluated the utility of high-field intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (ioMRI) in the surgical management of ganglioglioma-related drug-resistant epilepsy in children. Specifically, it sought to determine whether ioMRI improves outcomes by optimizing the extent of resection, enhancing seizure control, reducing reoperations, and minimizing complications.

methodsThis retrospective single-center study included 14 pediatric patients with cerebral ganglioglioma who underwent epilepsy surgery with ioMRI from 2014 to 2022. The median age was 11.5 years (range 3-16 years). Patient demographics, the rate of continued ioMRI-guided surgery, the extent of resection, histology, complications, reoperations, and seizure outcomes at 1 year postoperatively were assessed.

resultsResidual tumor was detected using ioMRI in 9 of 14 patients (64.3%), leading to further resection. Complete tumor resection was achieved in 12 patients (100%) as intended, while two patients underwent planned tumor debulking. Temporary neurological deficits were observed in two patients, with no permanent deficits documented. One patient required reoperation, and another was scheduled for one. The median follow-up duration was 43 months (range 12-65 months). Seizure outcomes were classified as Engel I in 9 of 10 (90%) and Engel III in 1 of 10 patients (10%). Four patients were lost to follow-up.

conclusionThe use of ioMRI in pediatric epilepsy surgery for ganglioglioma facilitated more complete resections, contributing to favorable seizure outcomes and a low complication rate. These findings support ioMRI as a valuable tool in optimizing surgical management for this patient population.